A pony found emaciated, abandoned and “riddled with maggots” did not survive despite her rescuers’ best efforts.
The RSPCA is appealing for information on the 12hh mare, named Tuesday by staff, who was found in a stubble field in Cheshire yesterday (22 September).
Inspector Pamela Bird went to the field, off Hield Lane, Northwich.
She said: “Members of the public had spotted the cob and were concerned about her weight and that she was struggling to walk.
“When I arrived I could see how skinny she was. She had terrible flystrike and was riddled with maggots.
“She was very quiet and shut down. It was heartbreaking to see her in such a sorry state.”
The three- to four-year-old was given immediate veterinary treatment but blood results showed she was very ill.
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Ms Bird said: “Vets did the best they could for her but she wasn’t eating and was getting sicker and sicker. Sadly, overnight on Tuesday, her body gave up the fight and she died.
“Someone left Tuesday to get into this state and, instead of getting her the treatment and help she badly needed, simply dumped her in a field and washed their hands of her. It’s disgraceful.
“I’d like to hear from anyone who recognises the pony, knows where she came from or saw anything suspicious in the area overnight on Sunday or on Monday, when we believe she was left here.”
Anyone with information is asked to call the RSPCA’s appeal line on 0300 1238018.
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Eleanor is an experienced journalist who spent over eight years working for local and national newspapers before joining H&H as news editor in March 2016. Passionate about equine welfare and exposing the truth, Eleanor has reported on all aspects of the industry, from Brexit to anti-bullying campaigns, and from dressage rules to mules. Her sport of choice is showjumping, in which she competes her own horses, and she also enjoys reporting at local jumping shows through to international championships.
